Living with a disability presents unique challenges, not only for the individual but also for their families and carers. Behavioural difficulties can make everyday life more complex, affecting learning, social interactions, and overall well-being.

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) services are designed to provide practical, evidence-based strategies to address these challenges. By focusing on understanding behaviour and promoting positive change, PBS helps Australians with disabilities lead more independent, fulfilling lives.

What is Positive Behaviour Support (PBS)?

Defining PBS

Positive Behaviour Support (PBS) is a person-centred, evidence-based approach to managing behaviours of concern. Rather than using punishment or reactive strategies, PBS focuses on understanding why a behaviour occurs and creating supportive environments to encourage positive behaviours.

PBS integrates principles from psychology, social work, and education to provide holistic, practical solutions for individuals and their support networks.

Key Goals of PBS

The main objectives of PBS include:

  • Reducing behaviours that may be harmful or disruptive

  • Teaching alternative, positive behaviours

  • Enhancing life skills and social participation

  • Supporting families and carers with practical strategies

By addressing behaviours proactively, PBS improves outcomes for individuals and reduces stress for those around them.

Understanding Behaviour in Disability

Why Behaviours Occur

Behaviours often serve a purpose. For individuals with disabilities, challenging behaviours may communicate:

  • Unmet needs

  • Frustration or anxiety

  • Sensory sensitivities

  • Difficulty with communication

Understanding the function of a behaviour is the first step in developing effective support strategies.

Importance of Individualised Support

No two individuals are alike. Effective PBS requires assessments that consider the person’s abilities, environment, and personal preferences. This ensures strategies are tailored and meaningful, rather than generic or ineffective.

Components of Positive Behaviour Support

Functional Behaviour Assessment (FBA)

A Functional Behaviour Assessment identifies the triggers and outcomes of behaviours. Practitioners observe behaviours across different settings and analyse patterns to understand why they occur. This forms the basis for personalised interventions.

Environmental Modifications

The environment can greatly influence behaviour. PBS practitioners recommend changes in physical space, daily routines, and social interactions to reduce triggers and encourage positive behaviours.

Skill Building

PBS is not just about reducing challenging behaviour; it also focuses on skill development. Practitioners help individuals build:

  • Communication skills

  • Social and emotional skills

  • Daily living skills

  • Coping strategies

These skills increase independence and improve overall quality of life.

Collaboration with Families and Carers

A core element of PBS is collaboration. Families and carers receive guidance and training to implement strategies consistently at home, school, and in the community. This consistent support reinforces positive behaviours and strengthens the participant’s support network.

Benefits of PBS Services

For Participants

Participants experience a range of benefits, including:

  • Increased independence and self-confidence

  • Reduced frequency and intensity of behaviours of concern

  • Improved social interactions and relationships

  • Enhanced participation in education, work, and community activities

Studies indicate that structured PBS interventions can reduce challenging behaviours by up to 50% in the first year of implementation.

For Families and Carers

PBS not only supports participants but also empowers families. Carers gain tools to manage behaviours effectively, reducing stress and improving family wellbeing. Consistent strategies create predictable routines, which benefit everyone involved.

Long-Term Impact

Over time, PBS leads to lasting positive change. Participants gain skills that support independence, reduce the need for restrictive interventions, and enhance inclusion in society.

Accessing PBS Services in Australia

NDIS Funding

The National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) funds Positive Behaviour Support services for eligible participants. PBS falls under the Capacity Building – Improved Relationships and Community Participation categories, allowing individuals to access professional assessments, planning, and interventions.

Choosing the Right Provider

Selecting a qualified provider is critical for successful PBS implementation. Families should consider:

  • Practitioner qualifications and experience

  • Person-centred, evidence-based methods

  • Accessibility and flexibility of services

  • Reputation and testimonials from other families

For reliable and professional support, Behaviour Therapy Australia offers comprehensive PBS services, connecting individuals with experienced practitioners who provide personalised care.

Common Behavioural Challenges Addressed by PBS

PBS practitioners support a wide range of behaviours, including:

  • Aggression or self-injury

  • Anxiety or emotional dysregulation

  • Communication difficulties

  • Social withdrawal or isolation

  • Difficulty adapting to routines and transitions

By targeting the underlying causes, PBS helps participants develop more effective ways to communicate and engage with their environment.

Practical Examples of PBS in Action

School Settings

In schools, PBS strategies can support children to:

  • Follow classroom routines

  • Engage positively with peers

  • Manage frustration and anxiety

  • Develop social and academic skills

Consistent interventions across classrooms and home environments improve academic performance and social integration.

Home and Community

At home, PBS focuses on:

  • Establishing predictable routines

  • Teaching coping and communication strategies

  • Reducing stress during daily activities

  • Encouraging participation in family and community life

These strategies not only improve behaviours but also strengthen family relationships and overall quality of life.

The Role of Technology in PBS

Telehealth and digital tools are increasingly used to deliver PBS services, especially in remote areas. Video consultations, online training for carers, and digital tracking of behaviours allow practitioners to provide consistent support and monitor progress efficiently.

Technology also helps families implement strategies consistently, creating a more cohesive support system for the participant.

Future of Positive Behaviour Support in Australia

PBS services are expanding across Australia, with increasing awareness of the benefits of early intervention and personalised support. Key trends include:

  • Greater integration of PBS into schools and community programs

  • Increased use of telehealth and remote service delivery

  • Data-driven approaches to monitor progress and outcomes

  • Stronger collaboration between families, carers, and professionals

These developments ensure that PBS remains accessible, effective, and adaptable to the changing needs of participants.

Conclusion

Positive Behaviour Support services are essential for Australians with disabilities seeking to improve independence, social skills, and overall quality of life. By focusing on understanding behaviour, building skills, and providing consistent support, PBS helps participants and their families navigate daily challenges successfully. For expert guidance and tailored interventions, Behaviour Therapy in Australia provides access to experienced practitioners who deliver comprehensive, personalised care nationwide.